By Guest Blogger: Nick Burton

If you have a dog, chances are you consider them a part of the family. That’s why leaving them for an extended amount of time can be so difficult. While there may be times when you simply can’t take your pup with you out of town, it’s really not as hard to travel with them as many people think — especially if you’re going on a vacation. For the dog owners out there who are planning your next vacation, consider bringing Fido along for the fun. Whether you’re saving on pup products by shopping at big retailers like Kohls or choosing to camp out instead of staying at a hotel, these tips will help ensure everyone has a good time without draining your bank account:

Get All Your Pup’s Stuff Together 

The first order of business is to gather all the necessary items you will need to bring along on your trip. Of course, you will need to pack things like your dog’s food, bowls, collar, and leash. If you don’t already have one, look at online reviews to find a travel carrier that will best suit your pup’s needs. It can also help to bring along some belongings your dog is familiar with, such as bedding, pillows, and toys. You can typically find anything you need at major stores like Kohl’s, and you can click here for Kohl’s coupons and promo codes that can save you a good bit of money. 

Go to the Vet

In order to set out confidently on your trip and avoid potentially expensive vet bills, you will need to make sure your dog is in good health. Call your veterinarian to confirm that your pup is up to speed on their exams and vaccines. If necessary, take your dog in for a checkup. Your vet should be able to evaluate your dog and suggest ways to curb any anxiety they may experience on the trip. Also, if your dog is not microchipped, consider getting that done. If you’re traveling overseas, you will need a health certificate, which you should be able to get from your vet office. 

Keep It Dog-Friendly

When you’re planning a budget-friendly trip with your dog, you have to think about their needs in every aspect. Does your destination have activities both of you can enjoy at little to no cost? Generally speaking, beaches are ideal vacation spots for dogs and their owners because there is so much space to run and play. Camping and taking an RV trip are also great ways to travel with a dog because they both provide an opportunity to spend time in nature. Wherever you go, it can also help to research nearby dog-friendly restaurants and dog parks.

If you’re booking a hotel, make sure you ask about their pet policy and regulations, as well as any additional fees you can expect. Many hotels are dog-friendly, but it’s essential to understand all the guidelines and to respect other occupants during your stay. Another thing to consider is going camping. Most campgrounds don’t charge extra for pets, and camping and hiking can provide your pup with a little piece of heaven. 

Help Your Pup Transition 

It’s common for dogs to experience anxiety when they travel. This is primarily because they have a hard time with new environments and change in routine. If your pup is not used to their travel carrier, have them sleep in it for a few nights leading up to the trip, and line the inside with one of their blankets. If you’re traveling by car, break them in by taking them for a few trips around town first. If you’re flying, visit the airport so that they can look and sniff around. 

You don’t have to leave your dog behind on your next vacation. Pack all your pup’s travel necessities, contact your veterinarian about their health status, and take them in if you need to. Consider the comfort and well-being of your dog when you look at destinations and lodging, and try to break them into whatever mode of transit you’ll be using. Remember — it doesn’t have to be expensive or back-breaking to bring your pup along for the ride. 

Photo Credit: Pexels